Gordon and Berns were unable to find a cure to help their own son. But last year, they published a study that revealed the first drug to treat the disease. As ABC reports, most children with Progeria die by age 13.

Sam lived to be 17.

Sam's story was beautifully told in an HBO documentary titled Life According to Sam. The documentary revealed a funny, sober boy who dreamed of playing with his high school marching band.

It also revealed a boy who was grateful for his life and the parents he had.